Every school has a philosophy. This is a given that does not change. It is administered by a professional and trained staff. In a cooperative parents are involved to the extent that each school requires. Most cooperatives have very much the same approach in philosophy as Rancho.

For many years studies have been made about to give children the base upon which to build socialization, creativity and self esteem. One author wrote "give them all the materials possible and let them mess around".

Nursery school is typically the first step away from home. Here, children learn to share, take turns and to respect the feelings of others. It is the background that they will need to enter kindergarten with confidence and eagerness to learn more.

Sometimes we make gifts for parents but the children use their own creativity. They learn that they are a part of family rituals but on their own level. We give them the materials which they explore time and time again and we stand back and watch.We are there to help when it is needed bu do not interject by suggesting adult directed conclusions. For example, "What are you making? ... What is it?"

If activities are safe and children are talking to each other we do not suggest a game unless we are in dire need to redirect a situation.

Much of what we do is subtly taught preparation for kindergarten. When we ask children to sit down at activity tables, which is very difficult for some and can take two years to learn, that is preparation for future schooling.

Together we count the shovels when we pick up; we count the children; we sing and talk about the alphabet. But, we wait to 'teach' how to write their names until they ask. When we teach how to write prior to that, they will do it to please the adults, but will stop doing their beautiful art.

In most cases, children graduate knowing how to count and have a good concept of numbers, names and letters. They are eager to learn more and have the feeling of "I CAN". We teach nonviolence by banning guns, swords and war toys. These toys are not to be encouraged. Today more than ever it is important to teach nonviolence.

Rancho Co-op can also be an extended family to whatever degree parents would like it to be. There is help and support from parents and teacher individually and at the compulsory monthly meetings.

The nursery school years are very important. These children have been on earth for only two to four years. They are learning all the time. If we impose too much on them it will be at the expense of unlearned and possible more crucial subjects.

As we may have experienced when we went to school, information was fed to us and we were instructed to memorize. We prefer that they learn to think and come to their own conclusions and explorations. We often turn a question form a child back by asking, "What do you think?" For the sake of consistency it is hoped that this approach is practical at home.